Key Points:
- Rema says smoking and tattoos were part of his music art.
- His HEIS album cover was inspired by anime character Itachi.
- He says fans misunderstood his rebranding as a lifestyle change.
Rema Opens Up About His Big Image Change
Nigerian singer Rema has explained why he changed his look before releasing his second album, HEIS. He said the new style, including tattoos and smoking, was not a real lifestyle change.
Instead, it was just a way to express himself through art. The singer had removed his usual teddy bear and mask. He switched to dark clothes, body art, and a new sound.
It Was Never About Changing Who He Is
On Thursday, Rema marked one year since HEIS came out. He used the chance to speak clearly about his image.
Writing on his X account, he said:
“HEIS, the Anniversary. I talked about this album in many interviews, but I kept some deep parts to myself. Now, I want to share them.”
He said the album cover was based on Itachi Uchiha, a character in the popular anime Naruto. According to him, Itachi’s story shows how truth can be hidden under a mask. That idea shaped the cover.
Rema Says It Was Art, Not a Lifestyle
Rema said:
“The cover was inspired by Itachi in Naruto. The truth was hidden like an illusion. Love was covered by what people saw as betrayal — like my change in sound, smoking, style, and dark colours.”
He explained that the smoking and new look were part of the story. They helped him show the strong energy of the album.
Shallipopi Once Said the Same Thing
Last year, rapper Shallipopi also shocked fans. He said he doesn’t smoke, even though he often poses with cigarettes. Like Rema, he said it was only for looks and style.
Now, Rema’s message adds to that idea. Sometimes, what fans see is just part of a bigger story told through music.
